The Malheur National Forest in the Blue Mountains of Eastern Oregon is administered from the Forest Supervisor's Office in John Day, Oregon and three Ranger Districts. The Forest Supervisor, assisted by a professional and technical staff, is responsible for all activities affecting the 1.7 million National Forest acres. District Rangers and their staffs accomplish on-the-ground management of forest resources.
The National Forest system is administered by the USDA Forest Service. The Malheur National Forest is within the Pacific Northwest Region which includes the 19 National Forests in Washington and Oregon. Headquarters for the Pacific Northwest Region are located at the Robert Duncan Plaza, 333 S.W. 1st st., P.O. Box 3623, Portland, Oregon 97208, (503) 808-2200.
Like all National Forests, the Malheur belongs to all Americans and is managed under the multiple-use principle "for the greatest good of the greatest number in the long run."
The diverse and beautiful scenery of the forest includes high desert grasslands, sage and juniper, pine, fir and other tree species, and the hidden gems of alpine lakes and meadows. Elevations vary from about 4000 feet (1200 meters) to the 9038 foot (2754 meters) top of Strawberry Mountain. The Strawberry Mountain range extends east to west through the center of the Forest.
For many years, these forested lands have been important to the people who live here. Native Americans hunted game, gathered roots and berries, and traded and socialized with each other sustaining their lives and cultures. These lands are still important to them. As explorers, fur trappers, and gold miners discovered this area, the forest and its many resources played an important role in the development of local communities, a role that continues today.
As we manage for healthy stands of trees, we are also able to provide a sustainable harvest to meet the demands of the American public for lumber, paper, and other wood products. Other areas are managed to provide unique habitats for wildlife, and opportunities for people to experience primitive natural surroundings.
As visitors to the Malheur National Forest, we all have many privileges and responsibilities. Our primary responsibility is to protect our natural resources for future generation. Please be careful with fire and help to keep the forest green and clean.